The love between the son of Fernanda and Giancarlo Casiraghi and the daughter of Grace and Ranieri of Monaco in 1983, broken by the tragedy at sea in 1990
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FROM THE REPORTER
FINO MORNASCO - One a contemporary fairy tale. Stefano Casiraghi’s love for Princess Caroline of Monaco in the 1980s was probably the most lovely love story of the era.
She is beautiful, the daughter of a prince and a divaRainier III of Monaco and Grace Kelly, Oscar was awarded in 1954 for the film «The Country Girl». He, a charming Italian boy, born in the middle class in the rich bourgeoisie near Milan, on Lake Como in Fino Mornasco where his father Giancarlo, a former primary school teacher, becomes a accomplished entrepreneur.
Therefore, their love gives Italy and the world the smell of the Royal wedding and all the glamor of
Stefano and Carolina say yes, in a private ceremony, at the Rocher in Monaco. And the images of those happy years, taken with the three beautiful children – Andrea the eldest, Charlotte and than Pierre – give the world an image of happiness. A perfect love that regenerates the desire to live in the Principalityafter the tragedy just a year before the fatal car accident that took the life of Princess Grace.
Stefano is young, smart, grew up with masters and Bocconiand still beautiful: the reception at court is excellent. His ingenuity, his Lombard dynamism, his concreteness which he inherited from his self-made parents, conquers the gruff Prince Ranieri. The wedding with the princess is only civil as there is a precedent for the eldest daughter of Ranieri and Grace with the Parisian financier Philippe Junot in the late 70s. A union that would not last,as Grace imagined herself,”for long”.
Stefano Casiraghi in Monaco he brings his passions, rallies, cars – a love shared with Prince Ranieri - and his passion for the sea. This is also the passion in the blood of the Grimaldis of Monaco, Prince Albert I “the navigator” who founded the Oceanographic Museum and made the sea his life and his mission. The grimaldis, who reached the Rocca in 1297 and never left it again: over 700 years of reign, the oldest in Europe.
It was 1989 when the father of the current Prince of Monaco, Albert II, celebrated his 40th year of reign at the Rock. With Carolina and Stefano together with the heir Alberto and Princess Stéphanie, they are all together a new Principality family that looks to the future and wants to dream again with a new love. On the balcony of the Palais, when ranieri appears to greet the Monegasques, with Alberto is Stefano, almost a second sonbeloved son-in-law.
LThe idyll lasts too short, as in a fairy tale, broken by spells, Carolina and Stefano’s love on the waves is interrupted by the tragic accident during it offshore race, in October 1990. The princess bids a brokenfarewell to Stefano in a dead comment in the corriere della Sera: “Thank you I found the path and the real life”. The link with Stefano’s family – his mother Fernanda (who died at 99) and his father Giancarlo – is still strong, certainty over the years. With «mamma Fernanda» who also becomes a point of reference for his grandchildren,the princess’s children,like many of her other children’s grandchildren. Up to the grandchildren.
As, Another contemporary fairy tale rekindles joy in the Casiraghi family in the 2000s: the last son born to Pierre, Carolina and Stefano was married to Beatrice Borromeo. And with regard to the religious sea on the Burmese Islands in relation to the civil palace in Monaco, in July 2015, ”Grandma Fernanda” is always there. With tenacity « a woman who had great pain and great comfort – as said by her son Marco the Corriere -.A woman who has lived almost a century, growing up during the war.”
How did the legacy of Stefano Casiraghi influence princess Caroline’s life after his passing?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Historian Enrica Roddolo on the Love Story of Stefano Casiraghi and Princess Caroline of Monaco
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, Enrica! It’s a pleasure to have you here to discuss what could be described as one of the most enchanting love stories of the late 20th century—the romance between Stefano Casiraghi and Princess Caroline of Monaco.
Enrica Roddolo: Thank you for having me! This love story certainly captured the public’s inventiveness back in the 1980s and continues to evoke a sense of wonder.
Editor: Let’s dive in! Many would consider their love a “contemporary fairy tale.” What elements contribute to this narrative, in your opinion?
Enrica Roddolo: Absolutely! Their romance had all the classic fairy tale elements: a beautiful princess, a charming Italian boy from a modest background, and a love that felt like it transcended societal norms. His charm, paired with her royal grace, created a captivating image that resonated with people worldwide.
Editor: It sounds like a story right out of a movie! Could you tell us more about their backgrounds? How did their differing origins play a role in their relationship?
Enrica Roddolo: Of course! Princess Caroline is the daughter of the iconic Grace Kelly and Rainier III of Monaco—her upbringing was steeped in glamour and royalty.In contrast, Stefano was born into a middle-class family near Milan. However, he was enterprising and became an accomplished entrepreneur. Their differing backgrounds added depth to their love story, reflecting how love can transcend social barriers.
Editor: They married in a private ceremony at the Rocher in Monaco, which sounds so romantic. How vital was the setting, and what does it signify in the context of their relationship?
Enrica Roddolo: The Rocher is a significant location—its steeped in history and represents the heart of monaco’s royal identity. Their choice of location symbolizes not just their union but also Caroline’s desire to create a sense of family and stability after the tragic loss of her mother, Princess Grace. It was a powerful statement of renewal and hope.
Editor: Tragedy did shadow their early years together, especially with Princess Grace’s death just a year prior to their marriage. How did they manage to maintain their happiness in the face of such adversity?
Enrica Roddolo: That’s a testament to their resilience! Stefano brought a sense of joy and grounding to Caroline’s life during a tumultuous time. Their love was,in many ways,a balm for the wounds left by tragedy. Their three children—Andrea, Charlotte, and Pierre—became a focal point for their happiness and further solidified their bond.
editor: You mentioned their children earlier. How did their family life influence public perception of their relationship?
Enrica Roddolo: The images of this family—so happy and carefree—contrasted the somber tone surrounding Monaco after Princess Grace’s passing. Stefano and Caroline’s nurturing of their children presented an ideal image of a royal family, sparking renewed interest and affection from the public. It was an inspiring demonstration of love’s potential to heal and regenerate.
Editor: Tragedy would strike again with Stefano’s untimely death in a boating accident. How did this event impact caroline’s life and legacy?
Enrica Roddolo: Stefano’s tragic death was indeed a significant blow. It marked the end of an era—he had brought joy and vitality to Caroline’s life. Afterward, she focused on her children and embraced her royal responsibilities. His memory undoubtedly influenced her approach to family and duty within the principality.
Editor: In the grander scheme of things, what lasting impact did their relationship have on Monaco and its royal image?
enrica Roddolo: Their relationship redefined the royal image of Monaco during a challenging time. It infused the principality with a sense of hope and renewal, showcasing how love can flourish in the midst of adversity. Their story continues to inspire and reminds us that, despite life’s challenges, love remains a powerful force.
Editor: Thank you, Enrica, for sharing your insights! This love story genuinely intertwines with the history of Monaco and continues to captivate us today.
Enrica Roddolo: Thank you for the engaging conversation! It was a pleasure to reflect on a love story that still resonates so deeply.
